Nine GOP Senators Back Budget Bill in Final Passage

Two-Year Budget Measure Approved on 64-36 Vote

A two-year budget deal cleared Congress Wednesday on a 64-36 Senate vote, ending a year of polarized debate on fiscal matters that showed how little common ground exists between the parties.

The bill drew support from a lukewarm band of backers, as members of both parties complained about its limited scope. Republicans wanted the legislation to do more to curb spending; Democrats were disappointed it didn't renew expanded unemployment...